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8 NIGHTS LION SANDS AND AZURA RESORT
8 NIGHTS LION SANDS AND AZURA RESORT
Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve - Bazaruto Archipelago
9 Days / 8 Nights
2 Persons sharing
Click here to view your Digital Itinerary
Overview
Destination / Accommodation / Nights / Basis / Room TypeSabi Sand Private Game Reserve / Lion Sands River Lodge / 4 / FI / Luxury Room
Bazaruto Archipelago / Azura Benguerra Island / 4 / FI / Beach Villa
Key
FI: Fully inclusive.
Price
Starting from *USD7034.00 per person sharing
*Prices are quoted as an indication and can change dependent on the rate of excahnge, seasons, availability and rates from suppliers
Included
Lion Sands
- Luxurious accommodation in a Luxury Room
- Three meals per day
- Teas/Coffees; Mini bar in room; Inclusive drinks & selected snacks (all soft drinks and selection of local beers, spirits & house wines)
- Two game drives daily with FGASA qualified ranger & tracker
- Game drive refreshments & snacks
- Specified inclusive safari activities
- Skukuza Airport transfers
- Sabi Sand & KNP Entrance fees
- Wi-fi in public areas
Azura Resort
- All meals including main beach dinners
- Local beers & spirits, selection of house wines, soft drinks, tea & coffee, waters
- Sunset cocktail of the day served to Sala
- Mozambican Butler/Host Service
- A 15 minute refresher back and neck massage
- Wifi access in the public areas (not in rooms)
- A Land rover Island Drive
- A sunset Dhow cruise
- Various Children’s Activities (see Activity Sheet)
- EVAC Medical Insurance
- Return helicopter transfers to lodge
General
- Return charter flights OR Tambo | Skukuza | Kruger International Airport
- Return International flights Kruger International | Vilanculos | OR Tambo
Excluded
Lion Sands
- Laundry
- Premium brand beers, spirits, cellar wines & champagnes
- Cigars & cigarettes
- Gratuities
- Items of a personal nature (Phone calls, curio's, etc.)
- Spa treatments
Azura Resort
- Premium spirits, cocktails, wines and champagnes
- Laundry
- Gratuities
- Items of a personal nature (Phone calls, curio's, etc.)
- Specialist guided activities, day trips, deep sea fishing, boat hire
- Reef snorkeling, Island hopping, Scuba diving and Scuba courses
- Bazaruto National Park levy (approx. US$15 per person per stay)
- 17% government tax charged on local extras
General
- International flights not listed
- Travel Insurance
- Airport departure taxes
Day 1: Lion Sands River Lodge, Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve
South Africa
Every country in the world displays some diversity, but South Africa, stretching from the lions in the Kruger National Park to the iconic Table Mountain in the Cape, takes some beating. Enjoy the Country’s sweeping valleys of the Winelands, Cape Town’s jumping nightlife, Namakwa’s springtime symphony of wildflowers or KwaZulu-Natal’s iSimangaliso Wetland Park which alone has five distinct ecosystems, attracting both zebras and dolphins - there is something here for any person with any interest of any age.
Although the country has its fair share of problems, South Africans are some of the most upbeat, welcoming and humorous folk you’ll encounter anywhere, from farmers in the rural north who tell you to drive safely on those dirt roads, to Khayelitsha kids who wish you molo (‘good morning’ in Xhosa).
Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve
The Sabi Sands is South Africa's premier private game viewing destination. It was here that the southern African safari began and today this famous reserve offers exceptional game viewing and equally exceptional accommodations. Two perennial rivers, the Sabi and the Sand flow through this Game Park, sustaining the diverse fauna and flora of the area.
The success of leopard viewing within the Sabi Sands is legendary. Elephants, lion, rhino, buffalo, cheetah, giraffe, zebra and a vast variety of antelope and other species can be closely observed in their natural environment.
Day Notes
Upon arrival at OR Tambo, met your representative from the chartered flight company at a predesignated meeting place. From here you'll be taken to the departures lounge. A short 1 hour 30 minute flight will take you to Skukuza in Kruger National Park. Here you'll be met by your guide from Lion Sands. After check in procedures and freshening up, meet your guide and fellow guests for afternoon tea. After this afternoons game viewing drive, return to camp for a sumptuous dinner.
Overnight: Lion Sands River Lodge View iBrochure
Lion Sands is a place that enriches one’s soul and promises life-changing moments and opportunities that will leave you with memories of unforgettable experiences. It is an extraordinary gift passed down over generations and even for those of us who have known its sweeping landscapes since birth, it remains a place of overwhelming beauty and discovery.
Our family is one of the most fortunate in the world to have the privilege of being the custodians of one of Africa’s truly unspoiled wilderness areas. In the heart of the game-rich Sabi Sand Reserve, adjacent to the world-renowned Kruger National Park, we have created an iconic destination, which is as close to perfection as any place in Africa can take you. At Lion Sands you have the opportunity to view spectacular wildlife whilst preserving the balance of our “bushveld”, and the privilege of being in the company of people with an insatiable enthusiasm both for the bush and for the people who come out to visit us.
River Lodge is the soul of Lion Sands and has been built on the banks of the Sabie River, positioned on a site with trees dating back 800 years. Facing due east, the lodge catches the sun as it rises over the Kruger National Park. Hosted by a family of staff that make it feel like home away from home, the lodge is about spirit, warmth and nature. Here you are invited to relax and experience African hospitality at its finest.
The public areas at River Lodge offers guests the following: a private lounge and bar with fireplace, an outdoor safari lounge, 2 swimming pools (heated in winter), wooden viewing decks, a secluded bird hide, a magnificent River Deck built on the river, a conference room, Africology Health Spa & gymnasium, curio shop & both an indoor and open-air (Boma) dining area.
Flight Information
Date / Flight / Departure Airport / Time / Arrival Airport / Time / ClassOR Tambo International Airport [JNB] / Skukuza Airport / TBA / Charter flight
Road Transfers
Date / Pick Up / Drop Off / Time / VehicleSkukuza Airport / Lion Sands River Lodge / TBA / Open top game viewer
Included
Fully Inclusive
Drinks (Local Brands) Included
Day 2: Lion Sands River Lodge, Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve
Day Notes
On safari. Today's activities involve morning and afternoon game drives. Relax between activities by the pool or in your room with a good book.
Included
Fully Inclusive
Drinks (Local Brands) Included
Day 3: Lion Sands River Lodge, Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve
Day Notes
Full day on safari
Included
Fully Inclusive
Drinks (Local Brands) Included
Day 4: Lion Sands River Lodge, Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve
Day Notes
Full day on safari
Included
Fully Inclusive
Drinks (Local Brands) Included
Day 5: AzuraBenguerra Island, Bazaruto Archipelago
Mozambique
Mozambique beckons with its coastline and swaying palms, its traditions, its cultures, its vibe and – most of all – its opportunities for adventure. This enigmatic southeast African country is well off most travellers' maps, but it has much to offer those who venture here: long, dune-fringed beaches, turquoise waters abounding in shoals of colourful fish, well-preserved corals, remote archipelagos in the north, pounding surf in the south and graceful dhows with billowing sails. Add to this colonial-style architecture, pulsating nightlife, an endlessly fascinating cultural mix and vast tracks of bush populated with elephants, lions and birds galore.
Discovering these attractions is not always easy, but it is unfailingly rewarding. Bring along some patience, a tolerance for long bus rides and a sense of adventure, and jump in for the journey of a lifetime
Bazaruto Archipelago
Tha Bazaruto Archipelago is a wonderful tropical island get away with numerous accomodation options and plenty of activities on offer.
Day Notes
After breakfast and final farewells, your pilot will collect you from Skukuza Airport for the short flight to Kruger International Airport in Nelspruit. From here you'll board an international flight to Vilanculos. After clearing immigration and customs, your pilot for the helicopter transfer to Azura will take care of you. This short 15 minute flight is an ideal oppurtunity to view the tranquil beauty of the Indian Ocean.
Overnight: Azura Benguerra Island View iBrochure
Imagine an unspoilt island within a pristine Marine National Park. Miles of deserted beaches with soft white sand. Sparkling turquoise seas, crisscrossed by local dhow boats plying their trade. Swaying palms, gentle breezes, sunny days and star studded nights. Welcome to Azura Benguerra Island.
Built entirely by hand in partnership with the local community, we have just 18 spacious ’beach-chic’ designer villas, each with their own private pool stretching out to the Indian Ocean beyond, and located a few steps from the pristine white sand beach. They offer our discerning guests every comfort, with handcrafted king size beds, feature bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers, air-conditioning, daybeds, lounging decks and salas right on the beach. They were designed for the ultimate getaway in this magnificent beach paradise.
Our 2 bedroomed Villa Amizade is perfect for families, friends, or those requiring a little more relaxation space, with the benefit of its own lounge and dining areas, ‘wine bar’, and larger swimming pool. The 3 bedroom Presidential Villa has its own beachfront location for complete seclusion and privacy. It has a magnificent master suite, as well as 2 further en-suite bedrooms, and is perfect for a family stay. There is a vast infinity pool, great entertaining space from the lounge bar to the treehouse deck, and a private chef and Mozambican villa host for the ultimate in personalised service during your stay with us.
We offer a vast range of guided activities and experiences for you to enjoy, including world class snorkelling, fishing and scuba diving from our Padi 5 star dive centre. Take a tour of the island, visit the community, and the school that our Rainbow Fund registered charity built for the islanders. Go Island hopping by boat or by helicopter, enjoy a cocktail in your beachfront sala, drinks in the star bar, dinner in our wine cellar, or a relaxing massage at our unique African Spa. Your days are tailored around your wishes, to do as much or as little as you would like. Our ‘designed to give back’ ethos, whereby we support a range of community initiatives for our décor items, is evident throughout Azura, and provides an added area of interest for our guests.
At Azura, we believe that dining is all part of the experience, from breakfast at the water’s edge, to a full service picnic on a sandy island, or romantic dining on a candle-lit beach beneath the stars. Our Mozambican butler-hosts take huge pride in their innovative dining set-ups, and little touches to make your stay special. They are what our guests comment about the most, and are there to personalise your stay, as well as providing a unique insight into all things Mozambique.
With wonderful cuisine, ever smiling Mozambican service and a vast range of activities and experiences, Azura Benguerra Island is the perfect island escape. How you spend your time with us is your choice, but getting the small things right that will make the difference is ours.
Road Transfers
Date / Pick Up / Drop Off / Time / VehicleLion Sands River Lodge / Skukuza Airport / TBA / Open top game viewer
Flight Information
Date / Flight / Departure Airport / Time / Arrival Airport / Time / ClassSkukuza Airport / Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport [MQP] / TBA / Charter flight
Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport [MQP] / Vilanculos Airport [VNX] / TBA / Scheduled flight
Vilanculos Airport [VNX] / Azura Benguerra Island / TBA / Helicopter
Included
Fully Inclusive
Drinks (Local Brands) Included
Day 6: AzuraBenguerra Island, Bazaruto Archipelago
Day Notes
A full day to relax and unwind.
Activities
Dhow Cruise
Benguerra Island
Beach Dining
Island Drive
Dhow Cruise
a Sunset dhow cruise is a beautiful ending to a day on the water, with views over the archipelago and a chance to experience the local mode of water transport.
Benguerra Island
Benguerra island offers a range of activities and experiences for you to enjoy, including visits to our local community, and the school which was built by our Rainbow Fund charity. Climb the dunes, some of which are scattered with the remnants of ancient Arab pottery, for an amazing view of the archipelago. Visit the island’s lakes and spot a crocodile or two. Discover the local fauna and flora, or follow our walking trail.
Beach Dining
Your host will set up a private dinner on the beach in front of your villa, surrounded by candles arranged in the sand, or you can choose to have this candle-lit on your deck or beneath your sala. The ultimate in romantic dining!
Island Drive
We leave Azura on Game Drive vehicles toward Red Dune and Crocodile Lakes. En-route we will pass through the Island’s many villages where you have the chance to meet the local people of the local communities. The Island’s lifestyle, history and way of life will be explained to you. If you would like to we will visit Benguerra’s School (built by Azura’s Rainbow Fund charity, all donations are appreciated), and you may then have the unique opportunity to see the local children attend class, meet the teachers, and even the school’s Headmaster. If the drive is conducted on Sunday morning, the Guides may take you briefly to a village church service, which is attended by many of the local islanders.
Included
Fully Inclusive
Drinks (Local Brands) Included
Day 7: AzuraBenguerra Island, Bazaruto Archipelago
Day Notes
A full day on the resort. Many other optional extra excursions exist to be enjoyed. Chat to the front desk about organising these.
Optional
Diving
Fishing
Horse riding
Diving
The reefs in the Bazaruto Archipelago are abundant with a variety of fish and corals, and offer a range of depths and reef topography to suit beginner and experienced divers and snorkellers alike. Azura is positioned closest to the reefs and hence access is quick and easy. Our marine life and corals are often cited as the best off the East Coast of Africa.
Azura has a PADI 5 Star Dive Centre with new top of the range Scubapro equipment. The training pool is perfect for refreshing your diving skills or even trying out snorkelling before you head off to the reefs, and for training they offer a full range of courses and have a PADI Instructor.
Fishing
The Bazaruto Archipelago has some of the best big game, reef and bill fishing in the Indian Ocean. Species include: Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna/Bonito, King/Queen Mackerel, Prodigal Son, Wahoo, Dorado, and Barracuda. Giant Trevally (GT’s), the local speciality, often top the scales above 25kg. Azura caters for beginner and experienced fishermen/women alike, and operates a strict tag and release policy on protected species. You can choose to go trawling with our local guides, or we can bring in the specialist fishing guides available in the area, who offer saltwater fly fishing, jigging for Giant Trevally, and other specialist techniques.
Horse riding
For those who like to ride, a trek along the water’s edge on the horses based on Benguerra Island and back along some of the island’s tracks and trails is an experience never to forget! Arranged through Mozambique Horse Safaris, there are 9 horses available to suit all levels, from complete beginner upwards.
Included
Fully Inclusive
Drinks (Local Brands) Included
Day 8: AzuraBenguerra Island, Bazaruto Archipelago
Day Notes
Your final full day on this island paradise.
Included
Fully Inclusive
Drinks (Local Brands) Included
Day 9: Departure
Day Notes
After your morning breakfast, your helicopter pilot will take you back to Vilanculos Airport for your scheduled flight back to Johannesburg and your onwards travel arrangements.
Flight Information
Date / Flight / Departure Airport / Time / Arrival Airport / Time / Class / RefAzura Benguerra Island / Vilanculos Airport [VNX]
Vilanculos Airport [VNX] / OR Tambo International Airport [JNB]
Urgent Contact Numbers
Company Name / Telephone / Email Address / Contact PersonJourney In Style / +27 21 785 5498 / / Craig Pote